Yb-Esko, hailing from Port St. Lucie, Florida, is a rapper whose music and life story intertwine in a powerful narrative of survival and resilience. Growing up in an environment where death and domestic issues were the norm, Yb-Esko faced more than his fair share of hardships. From being frequently suspended in school to running from the police, his early years were marked by constant turmoil. Yet, amidst the chaos, he found solace and camaraderie in a group of friends who understood his struggles and looked up to each other for support.
As Yb-Esko got older, the stakes grew higher. Drugs and alcohol became a part of his life at a young age, offering a temporary escape from his problems but also leading him into dangerous situations that could have ended his life. Despite wanting to quit school, his friends and family insisted he stay, pushing him to find a way to cope with his circumstances. Music became his outlet. Encouraged by his friends, he began to express his experiences through his lyrics, turning his nights of risking his life and brushes with the law into raw, honest tracks.
One of the things that make Yb-Esko stand out is his resilience. “Nobody thought I would get this far, and I also didn’t think I’d be alive this long,” he reflects. Being a white rapper often means facing immediate doubt and skepticism, with people assuming he hasn’t experienced the struggles he raps about. Yet, it was the encouragement of others to “just try it” that propelled him into the music industry.
Yb-Esko’s journey from recording in home studios and producing his tracks to performing in professional studios and doing shows across California is a testament to his dedication. His achievements include winning 5th place at SXSW and his song “Potential” hitting 22k views on YouTube. Despite these successes, the road hasn’t been easy. “I definitely wanted to give up because I didn’t have the connections other people had or the money to pay for videos starting out,” he admits. However, his determination has kept him pushing forward.
While Yb-Esko doesn’t have any albums out yet, he has a wealth of unreleased music ready to drop. His past involvement in selling drugs and the time he spent in jail delayed his music career, but he sees these experiences as part of his journey. Looking ahead, he has ambitious goals. In a few years, he envisions himself performing at Rolling Loud, having billboards for his upcoming albums, touring across the country, flying on private jets, and having fans in every state.
For Yb-Esko, the angle is clear: pushing himself out there so people can look him up and want to hear more. He remains focused on his growth and the potential that lies ahead, with everything currently in process.
To follow Yb-Esko’s journey, check out his Instagram @Official_Esko_2x and his music on YouTube and Spotify. You can also find more about him on Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes.
Yb-Esko’s story is one of perseverance against all odds. From the streets of Port St. Lucie to the stages of California, his music is a reflection of his life—a testament to the power of determination and the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.